By News Desk
A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team in the Volta Region, Hon. Wilson Amos Agblemor, has called for a full and independent parliamentary probe into the proposed merger between AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana.
Mr. Agblemor expressed concern over what he described as inconsistencies in the government’s position on the future of AT Ghana. He recalled earlier assurances by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, that the government intended to invest in AirtelTigo to revamp its operations, questioning the sudden shift towards a merger.
“I’m personally not impressed at the shift in posts by the Honourable Minister,” Mr. Agblemor said. “As we speak, I’m not entirely sure whether this is a takeover or a merger.”
His comments come amid growing calls from the Minority Caucus in Parliament for a thorough investigation into the proposed deal. The Minority has raised concerns about transparency, due process, and the possible impact on jobs and competition within the telecommunications sector.
According to them, the merger could lead to the devaluation of AT Ghana, which remains the only wholly Ghanaian-owned telecommunications company, and potentially result in job losses.
Mr. Agblemor said parliamentary scrutiny was the most appropriate way to ensure transparency and accountability. “The best thing to do is to take this matter to Parliament, where the decision will be scrutinized, and the best course of action decided,” he stated. “There’s a need for a full and independent parliamentary probe into this deal so we all ascertain whether it’s a transparent and prudent alternative.”
The proposed merger between AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana has sparked debate among stakeholders in the telecom industry. While some believe the move could strengthen the sector and protect jobs, others argue it represents a disposal of a national asset.
Government officials, however, maintain that the restructuring is necessary to address AT Ghana’s accumulated debts and to stabilize the telecom sector.
